7. Problem Solving in community Practice

7.5 Conclusions on Problem Solving in Community Practice The package was well received by all groups of students and most comments about the design, content and approach were favourable. Students liked the interaction and large number of examples. However, in contrast to the first two packages that have been evaluated, this study has included students at varying points in their degree course and with varying levels of pre-knowledge of the subject. This has had a marked effect both on their learning outcomes and the approach adopted by the students to the learning task. Students at the University of Bath, new to dispensing, have been shown to show significant learning gains in the subject and a marked increase in confidence. At Cardiff, where the students were almost at the end of their degree course and with significant existing knowledge, they indicated an increase in confidence but very little increase in scores. The study methods adopted by the students at Cardiff clearly reflect a detailed, thorough approach, concentrating on the areas they already knew. At University of Brighton, the second year students had some pre-knowledge and were preparing for dispensing exams during this time. They had a four week study period which has again been shown to be far less effective than time-tabled sessions, judging by the number of absentees alone. The students who completed the package were, however, positive and indicated an increase in levels of confidence. This was not reflected in the pre and post test scores which showed a decrease in learning, although those with a lower pre-score were shown to show some improvement. The small sample size adds to the difficulties in attempting to seek explanations for these poor results. One aspect of these three studies which is common to all, is the way in which students worked through the material sequentially, concentrating, sometimes exclusively on the first two sections. This has affected learning outcomes, as tests were based on all three sections of the package. Students using this package for revision need more detailed advice on how to approach the package and whether all three sections are relevant to their needs. In general, students would have liked more support before beginning the package and advice about additional requirements such as BNF or Medicines, Ethics and Practice books.